Posts in Category: Pet Safety

It’s not uncommon for responsible pet owners and animal lovers to adopt again (and again and again!). More than 40% of people live in multi-pet households, but that doesn’t mean everyone gets along all the time. Cohabitation can be challenging for well-meaning pet owners, and fighting pets can turn any dream home into a nightmare. Continue…

It’s so hot right now in San Antonio that the chickens are laying hard-boiled eggs! As a result, our pets are at risk of overheating. Fortunately, there are many ways to protect your pet from the blazing sun, including offering up some delicious frozen pet treats. Take our word for it – there are few things cuter than a dog licking a personal pupsicle! Continue…

Let’s face it, if it was up to most pets, the great outdoors would be free to all, and roamed by many a fur friend. Afterall, time outside can provide much needed mental and behavioral enrichment—from watching birds to breathing in the fresh air.

But, as responsible cat owners, we know being indoors is generally safer for our pets, protecting them from disease, predation, and accident.

The good news is this doesn’t mean you can’t ever allow your cat outdoors. With some added safety precautions, you can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine with your favorite whiskered companion. Continue…

There’s nothing more inviting than the cool, aqua-blue water of a pool or the rolling tides at your favorite beach. However, pet swimming safety should be a priority for all owners when the desire to hang ten includes your best fur pal. With an estimated 5,000 drownings each year, pet swimming safety should be on the mind of every concerned pet parent. Continue…

In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy fears the worst when embarking on the yellow brick road: lions, tigers, and bears (oh, my!). She eventually realizes her fears were unfounded, allowing her to bravely handle anything that comes her way.

Similarly, the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital wants to prepare our pet-loving community for seasonal threats. With equal measures of planning and caution, summer pet safety is easily attainable. Continue…

There are few things worse than animal abuse, but do you know how to spot when an animal is being abused or neglected? Exploring this topic can be uncomfortable, but the prevention of animal abuse is achieved only through discussion and awareness. When we all work together, we can help pets in need. There’s nothing better than that! Continue…

Photographs and video clips of a cat hanging around in a basket full of cushy yarn balls or accidently, adorably getting tangled up in string are a part of our culture’s unwavering commitment to cuteness.

But, like the inspirational hang in there kitty poster from the ‘70s, cats should neither hang perilously from tree branches nor play with long, stringy items bound to result in entanglement and/or obstruction.

So, what safe cat toys should you provide your whiskered, fluff-ball of wonder? Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital has the scoop!

Process of Elimination

So, beyond yarn and string – and to prevent the need for emergency care – what else should your frisky feline avoid playing with? Continue…

It may seem like a good idea to wait to spay or neuter your pet – or forego the procedure altogether – but this choice can be costly for both of you. With so many homeless pets facing euthanasia each year, it makes sense to prevent unwanted litters. However, did you know your pet’s health can also be improved by this simple procedure?

Sterilization

When we spay or neuter your pet, it involves the surgical sterilization of specific reproductive organs while under general anesthesia. Continue…

As Valentine’s Day items line the store shelves, love is in the air. While the words “pet safety” may not be the sweet nothings you plan on whispering, it’s definitely important to those with animal companions.

Ahhh, Chocolate!

Most pet owners have a keen fear of chocolate when it comes to their pet – especially for the dog who eats anything.

Chocolate poisonings comprise the majority of veterinary emergencies this time of year. The darker the chocolate, the greater the danger to your pet, since it contains a greater percentage of theobromine and caffeine (the alkaloid toxins).

Since chocolate is often wrapped, many pet owners make the mistake of thinking their pet won’t chew through that heart-shaped box or foil. Think again! Any delectable (wrapped or not) can be smelled, prompting your dog to chow down. Continue…

For owners who love to run, jog, hike, and enjoy outdoor activities, allowing their dog to walk off-leash makes good sense. These activities keep your energetic dog moving while also providing opportunities for sniffing, exploring, and running free.

However, off-leash roaming is a big responsibility for any dog owner. Training and practice must be provided to ensure the safety of the dog and other humans and animals. Continue…